College Comparison
Grinnell College vs Massachusetts Institute of Technology
Compare acceptance rates, costs, test scores, graduation rates, and more to find your best fit.
At a Glance
Type
Private
Private
Location
Grinnell, IA
Cambridge, MA
Total Enrollment
1,788
11,886
Undergrad Enrollment
1,788
4,535
Student-Faculty Ratio
9:1
3:1
Admissions
Acceptance Rate
14.5%
4.5%
Average GPA
3.89
4.00
SAT Range
1410–1540
1520–1580
ACT Range
31–34
34–36
Test Policy
Optional
Required
Application Fee
$0
$75
Total Applicants
9,758
28,232
Cost & Value
Sticker Price
$77,830
$77,870
Avg Net Price
$15,608
$20,000
Tuition (In-State)
$60,988
$57,590
Tuition (Out-of-State)
$60,988
$57,590
Room & Board
$16,842
$20,280
% Receiving Aid
94.0%
59.0%
Avg Grant Amount
$49,077
$61,734
Outcomes
6-Year Grad Rate
89.0%
97.0%
4-Year Grad Rate
83.0%
90.0%
Retention Rate
93.0%
99.0%
Median Earnings (10yr)
$62,830
$143,372
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Explore by Location
Grinnell is in Grinnell, IA
MIT is in Cambridge, MA
Frequently Asked Questions
The average net price at Grinnell College is $15,608 per year, compared to $20,000 at MIT. Grinnell College is $4,392 less expensive on average after financial aid.
Admitted students at Grinnell College typically score between 1410-1540 on the SAT (25th-75th percentile). At MIT, the typical SAT range is 1520-1580. Scoring within or above these ranges will make you a competitive applicant.
Grinnell College has a graduation rate of 89%, while MIT has a graduation rate of 97%. MIT has the higher graduation rate, indicating strong student support and retention.
Grinnell College has a student-to-faculty ratio of 9:1, while MIT has a ratio of 3:1. MIT offers smaller class sizes on average, which typically means more individual attention from professors.
At Grinnell College, 94% of students receive financial aid with an average grant of $49,077. At MIT, 59% of students receive aid with an average grant of $61,734.
The median earnings for Grinnell College graduates 10 years after enrollment is $62,830, compared to $143,372 for MIT graduates. Graduates from MIT tend to earn more on average, though individual outcomes vary by major and career path.
Grinnell College is located in Grinnell, IA in a town: remote setting. MIT is located in Cambridge, MA in a city: midsize setting.

